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Chapter Briefs

NASW-Washington State

Advocacy Helps Win Social Work Representation on Committee

Washington State governor Bob Ferguson stands behind podium flanked by several persons The NASW Washington State Chapter advocated changes to the Mental Health Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Social Work Advisory Committee in the Department of Health.

State HB 1234 proposed changes to allow one member of the advisory committee, who must be an advanced social worker, to be either an advanced social worker (LASW) or an independent clinical social worker (LICSW).

The historical vacancy of the LASW position on the advisory committee is attributable to the limited number of LASWs within the state. Additionally, the chapter aimed to ensure comprehensive representation of social workers on the advisory committee.

The bill passed the House and Senate, and Gov. Bob Ferguson signed the legislation into law earlier this year.

NASW-Illinois

Chapter Supports Mental Health Workforce Bill

hand holding box labeled legislation If Illinois lawmakers fail to pass House Bill 1085, the mental health workforce crisis in Illinois will deepen, and access to care will become a privilege reserved for the wealthy, says the NASW Illinois Chapter.

Across the state, clinical social workers and other mental health professionals are leaving insurance networks in record numbers. Why? Because they are burned out by insurance red tape, denied payments, clawbacks, and, ultimately, they are forced to accept rates that don’t cover the cost of care. Increasingly, providers are opting out of commercial insurance altogether and shifting to private pay models—leaving behind those who can’t afford out-of-pocket treatment.

“We are rapidly moving toward a two-tiered mental health system,” said Kyle Hillman, NASW-Illinois director of legislative affairs. “If you’re wealthy, you’ll have your choice of providers. If you rely on insurance, your choices will become highly limited. We are moving toward a system where you will be stuck on a waitlist—if you can find someone taking your plan at all.”

NASW-Virginia

Ban on Female Trans Athletes Passes, Despite Opposition

an array of trans pride flags The Weekly Advocacy Brief, posted in May by the NASW Virginia Chapter, noted that President Donald Trump escalated his efforts to stop trans girls from “illegally” competing in sports aligned with their gender identity. His latest move warns states that he will cut their federal funding if they permit such individuals to participate, and directs local authorities to stop them. Citing its fear of losing federal funding for public schools, the Virginia High School League Executive Committee finalized a ban on female trans athletes, overturning a longtime policy that “had been working” and despite continued opposition to the reversal from NASW-Virginia and human rights groups.

NASW-Massachusetts

Chapter Conference Focuses on Older Adults

older woman smiling and holding a cup of hot beverage The NASW Massachusetts Chapter hosted its annual conference on May 1 and 2, which focused on older adults and people with disabilities.

Attendees heard about issues that impact community-based older adults and people with disabilities and effective ways to respond. Participants learned about how nursing home residents found constructive and positive ways to respond to the COVID crisis.

Other aspects of the conference focused on public policy, independent living centers, immigration, and solo agers.